03 October 2019 •
Back in July and August, we asked locals to share photos of their favourite view along the c2c line. We received hundreds of stunning entries from both the city and the coast, with lots of lovely stories about why those views are so special.
We narrowed the entries down to a shortlist, and now we’re delighted to announce the winner and three runners up!
Winner: Jamie Penfold from Barking
Jamie said: “When I took this picture I wasn’t in a great place in my life. My marriage had broken down, I’d recently attempted to take my own life and I was off work as a result. I felt like my world was caving in. I had to find somewhere to escape the hustle and bustle and found this place purely by chance. It was just so peaceful and the reflection was pretty damn good. Up there I had escaped and had time to reflect. I sat up there for ages to be honest with my parents just talking through everything.
“When I look at this photo now I feel happy, positive and thankful! That moment up in the roof garden was a big turning point in my life. I take my kids there now and it’s one of their favourite places.”
When we told Jamie he’d won the competition, he said “I’m blown away! I’m just glad that something good has come out of a tough time in my life and I hope it inspires others going through similar!”
Jamie has won a £250 Intu Lakeside gift card.
Runner up: Darran Hart from Leigh on Sea
Darran said: “Sunrise at Southend seafront, longest pier in the world; palm trees, sun, sea and sand. This could be any riviera, but it’s ours, looking perfect.”
Runner up: Kay Barrett from Southend
Kay said: “Between Chalkwell and Leigh on Sea is my favourite view from my commute. At certain times of the day and year, in certain weather, you can get a beautiful shot. If you’re quick!”
Runner up: Erin Caldwell from Battersea
Erin said: “My friends and I took a day trip to Southend and had the BEST time! Fish and chips, arcades and the fairground. I love this picture of them taking a rest after a long walk along Southend Pier! What a view out to sea!”
The three runners up have won pairs of tickets to either Shrek’s Adventure, SEA LIFE London, or the London Dungeon.
